Patton Boggs in merger talks with Squire Sanders

Lobbying powerhouse Patton Boggs is talking about a potential merger with Squire Sanders, a 1,300-attorney Swiss verein that has grown from its Cleveland roots into an international firm with offices on five continents.

Although Patton Boggs has been tightening its belt after a 12 percent revenue drop last year, a merger with the 380-lawyer firm would add depth in Washington, D.C., for Squire Sanders, the Wall Street Journal Law Blog reports.

Meanwhile, joining with Squire Sanders would expand the international reach of Patton Boggs. The firm lists 10 offices in Washington, D.C.; Alaska; Dallas; Denver; New Jersey; New York; and the Middle East on its website, although it will soon be closing its Newark, N.J., office.